"Good News" Magazine Aug '17 PP issue to publish online - Page 13

Breed All
About It!
Spotlight on:
The Shih Tzu
Description: This breed has a short snout, and a beautiful, silky coat in various colors,
such as black, black & white, gray & white, red & white, brindle, liver, liver & white, blue,
gold, and light to dark brown.The actual pronunciation of the unusual name is "sheed-zoo."
Temperament: The name means lion, but Shih Tzus are anything but fierce.They were
bred solely to be companions, and, as such, they are happy, sweet-natured, and loving
dogs that enjoy nothing more than following their people around and cuddling on their laps.
The Shih Tzu is a wonderful family pet. He is friendly and outgoing, and gets along with
other dogs and animals, and his docile personality makes him a good companion for chil-
dren. Kids need to learn, though, to keep their fingers away from the Shih Tzu’s prominent
eyes, which can be easily injured.Training requires patience, and the most difficult thing to
teach a Shih Tzu is housebreaking. Use consistency, praise, and food rewards. According
to the AKC, the Shih Tzu often ranks among the top ten most popular breeds in the country.
Average Height/ Weight: Between 9 - 10 1/2 inches tall, and 9 - 16 pounds.
Health Issues: A generally healthy breed, these dogs are prone to allergies, patellar lux-
ation (dislocation of the knee joint), eye and dental problems, ear infections, and reverse
sneezing. Because of their facial structure, a Shih Tzu's re-
spiratory system can be compromised. It's important to not
expose him to smoke or chemical cleaning products. Minimize
outdoor activity in hot, humid weather, as short-faced dogs
have a higher risk of heatstroke. Air conditioning is recom-
mended. Walk him in a harness as opposed to a collar to not
put pressure on his windpipe. Shih Tzus tend to wheeze and
snore because of their short snout.
Life Expectancy: 10 - 16 years.
Exercise: This breed does not require a lot of exercise. They
are content with short, daily walks.
Grooming: Shih Tzus mat easily, so their double coat should
be brushed or combed daily to keep it from tangling.They can
be messy eaters and their eyes tear often, so a regular face
wiping with a soft, dampened cloth is necessary.
Source: dogtime.com
K olbrooks V eterinary C linic
N. LEE KOLOS, V.M.D
1756 Nittany Valley Drive • Bellefonte
Phone: (814) 383-4415
Fax: (814) 383-2002
Email: Dr.LeeVMD@aol.com
Pawsitively Pets -- August
11